Applications for plasma transferred arc welded tools during hot steel tube making

Abstract

This paper describes applications of a tool reinforcement technology, using plasma transferred arc (PTA) welding, in hot metal rolling. The coating of large NbC particles shows a remarkable performance in the suppression of galling. As the rolling temperature increases, a matrix material with high temperature resistance to deformation is recommended. The tool life is slightly longer when a thick scale layer exists on the hot metal surface, but when the scale is eliminated the new tool demonstrates excellent capability. The new tool also shows a higher level of performance when rolling hot titanium and hot stainless steel. The application philosophy of PTA welded tools is demonstrated.